Happy Spring! As we look back at the past several months, MCASA is proud to share the great work we’ve done to support survivors and prevent sexual violence in Maryland. Last month marked the end of the state’s 2026 Legislative session. We are grateful to the General Assembly for their continued support for survivors of sexual violence through approving funding for rape crisis centers and the programs that support victims and survivors. Many other laws that support survivors, improve safety, and promote sexual violence prevention passed. Your calls, emails, texts, and calls to action lead the way to change and continue to make a difference in the lives of all Marylanders. To review bills that MCASA supported, check out our 2026 Legislative Priorities & Bills of Interest Final Report.
April was also the 25th anniversary of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). Every year, SAAM offers a great opportunity to raise awareness of the incredible work done by sexual violence organizations and highlight the needs of survivors in our communities. This SAAM, MCASA staff attended thirteen outreach events and provided over a dozen training sessions to highlight the work MCASA does and connect with community members in need of support and resources. It was great to be in community with our local partners and witness the power of our collective action.
In this edition of Frontline, we explore how fictional storytelling can serve as a prevention tool in our Prevention Corner. In our College Consortium piece, we provide a helpful Bystander Intervention guide for students on college and university campuses. Our Survivor Safety column explores drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) and it’s impacts on survivors. We also look into the challenges to reporting sexual violence for survivors with cognitive disabilities. Finally, MCASA is proud to highlight the work of Calvert County’s Center for Change in our Program Spotlight.
We need your support to continue to fight to end sexual violence. You can make a donation and help us serve Maryland survivors. You can also become a member to support survivors in Maryland.
Stay strong,
Lisae
Lisae C. Jordan, Esq.
Executive Director & Counsel, MCASA
